DAFNI Network of Sustainable Greek Islands

DAFNI Network counts 56 members of which 52 island municipalities and the Regions of North Aegean, South Aegean, Ionian Islands and the Regional Union of Municipalities of the Ionian Islands.

Thanks to its systematic and multifaceted action and the range of partnerships it has developed, DAFNI Network is recognized as a true ally of the islands, both on a national and European level. This is because it boasts excellent scientific and technical training, deep knowledge of the local needs and development dynamics of the islands, as well as dedication, over time, to the implementation of integrated solutions that address the identified needs of each island separately.

DAFNI Network:

• participates as partner and/or associate partner in numerous national and European projects, ensuring the transfer of knowledge and the realization of projects benefitting its members;
• serves as the official supporter of the Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy and the Pact of Islands in island-members, having developed over 30 Sustainable Energy Action Plans;
• coordinates the Smart Islands Initiative, supported by more than 200 island authorities, networks of islands and organizations from across Europe, which aims to mobilize combined investment tools for unlocking islands’ smart and integrated territorial development;
• participates as partner and regional partner for Greece and Cyprus in the Secretariat managing European Commission’s Clean Energy for Islands Initiative, the central platform for the clean energy transition of the more than 2,200 inhabited European islands.

Vision

The transition of islands into a local development paradigm that harnesses their unique natural and cultural capital, creates sustainable growth and offers high-quality of life to residents and visitors.

Objective

Supporting, empowering local government, raising awareness and actively involving citizens in the implementation of projects with a positive impact for local development in areas such as: green energy, environment, sustainable tourism, circular economy, sustainable mobility, education and employment.

Structure & Operation

DAFNI Network is a non-profit organization of insular local authorities (1st and 2nd level), founded in 2006. It is run by a General Assembly (G.A.) and a seven-member Board of Directors (BoD).

The G.A. is the supreme body of the Organization and may decide on any matter concerning the Organization, except for those which, as per the Law or the Articles of Association, are decided by the Board of Directors.

Upon its election, the BoD shall convene and elect its President and Vice-president. Among its responsibilities, it appoints the Director-General, convenes and defines the agenda items of the General Assembly. The Director-General shall participate in the meetings of the Board of Directors without the right to vote and is responsible for managing corporate affairs, contributing to the promotion and fulfilment of the goals of the Network.

The resources of the Network come from members’ contributions, sponsorships, donations, grants, European and other programs.